Oregon Pulp Mill - GP Permit Reconsideration

The Georgia Pacific Toledo mill releases an average of 11 million gallons a day of treated wastewater through an ocean outfall located 3,800 feet off Nye Beach in Newport. On any clear day, the wastewater plume is visible from Newport beaches, headlands and hotel rooms. Additionally the plume of wastewater is visible on Google Earth, that tourists often encounter before making their destination decisions. Surfers, swimmers and paddlers experience the plume in our mouth, nose, eyes and ears. DEQ is currently completing a formal reconsideration of the permit, based on a petition filed by Surfrider Foundation and several other organizations in September 2006. The ongoing reconsideration process provides an important opportunity to ensure adequate protection for public health and the environment and bring the agency closer to compliance with state and federal laws that protect water quality. Understanding that the Georgia Pacific Toledo Mill is an important part of the local coastal economy we have developed recommendations for a solution-based approach and the following recommendations are achievable to meet both of the socioeconomic and environmental goals for a healthy coastal community.